Do Coyotes Fear Domestic Dogs?

Most coyotes are naturally wary of humans and will usually try to avoid us. However, when it comes to

dogs

, their reaction is quite different. Coyotes may view dogs as either a threat or potential prey, depending on the size of the dog. In urban areas, it is not uncommon for people to encounter coyotes while walking their dog.

Coyotes are usually not interested in humans, but the presence of a dog can spark their curiosity. Larger dogs may be seen as a rival or a threat, while smaller dogs may be seen as potential prey. If you have a dog, it is important to use aversion training to teach them how to respond to coyotes. Most dogs will bark and act defensively when they encounter a coyote, warning them to keep their distance.

It is also important to invest in a solid fence that is at least 6 feet tall and buried 18 inches into the ground, as coyotes are excellent diggers. You can also purchase a coyote vest for small dogs, which has a Kevlar collar with 1-inch spikes and spikes on the back, making it difficult for coyotes to bite. In some cases, coyotes may follow you for a distance in order to escort you out of their territory. If this happens, do not turn your back on them and continue hazing them until they leave the area completely.Unfortunately, not everyone follows leash laws or uses retractable leashes that allow small dogs to move away from their owners far enough for coyotes to feel minimal threat from humans while viewing the small dog as possible food.

If coyotes are used to these aversive techniques, more than one deterrent may be needed. It is also important to remember that even if coyotes do not attack your dog, they can carry and transmit many diseases and parasites such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, scabies, fleas, worms and ticks.You can also install rollers for coyotes which are 4-foot aluminum rods that rotate when a coyote tries to grab them, preventing them from climbing over them. Each family of coyotes maintains and defends an area that averages between 5 and 28 square kilometers (3 to 18 square miles), depending on the availability of food. If a coyote gets too close or follows you for too long or does not respond to hazing, report it to city authorities.Finally, trapping a coyote with the intention of “euthanizing” it does not address the underlying problems in a community that create conflicts such as diet, inadequate garbage disposal and dogs off leash.